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Circular Economy and Job Creation: A Comparative Approach in an Emerging European Context

Author

Listed:
  • Paul Calanter

    (Institute for World Economy—Romanian Academy, 050711 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Andreea-Emanuela Drăgoi

    (Institute for World Economy—Romanian Academy, 050711 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Mihaela Gramaticu

    (Institute for World Economy—Romanian Academy, 050711 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Alina Dumitrescu

    (Institute for World Economy—Romanian Academy, 050711 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Mariana Taranu

    (Institute for World Economy—Romanian Academy, 050711 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Nicoleta Gudanescu

    (Institute for World Economy—Romanian Academy, 050711 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Aluculesei Alina-Cerasela

    (Institute for World Economy—Romanian Academy, 050711 Bucharest, Romania)

Abstract

The circular economy encompasses a systematic approach to sustainable development that enables countries, companies, and consumers to reduce environmental damage and to close the life cycle of products. Our paper investigates the main challenges facing Eastern European countries, particularly Romania, in the development of the circular economy while identifying potential solutions and the most appropriate public policy measures in this field. This research aims to highlight the unique perspectives of Romanian scholars on the circular economy experiences of former communist countries in Central and Eastern Europe, focusing on the opportunities and challenges these nations face as newer EU members. The research’s main finding is that while the implementation of circular economy principles in Romania is difficult due to legal, cultural, and financial barriers, leveraging EU financial support can lead to the creation of labour market opportunities and sustainable economic growth. Also, our second finding shows that an increase in research activity and a better focus on practical implementation strategies are needed to fully achieve the potential of the circular economy in Romania.

Suggested Citation

  • Paul Calanter & Andreea-Emanuela Drăgoi & Mihaela Gramaticu & Alina Dumitrescu & Mariana Taranu & Nicoleta Gudanescu & Aluculesei Alina-Cerasela, 2025. "Circular Economy and Job Creation: A Comparative Approach in an Emerging European Context," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(6), pages 1-21, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:6:p:2614-:d:1613400
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Alejandro Padilla-Rivera & Sara Russo-Garrido & Nicolas Merveille, 2020. "Addressing the Social Aspects of a Circular Economy: A Systematic Literature Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(19), pages 1-17, September.
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